Bentley R-Type Saloon

Click Here for Full Screen Image - Click Here to Download Image

Imposing, handsome and dignified, the Bentley R-Type is one of those cars that just exudes class from every well-turned angle.

And it doesn't just look good, as Autocar pointed out: "Years of painstaking research and development with mechanical perfection as the goal show their results unmistakably. Smoothness and quietness and sheer quality are in the superlative."

Introduced at the 1952 Earls Court Motor Show, the R-Type was a subtle reworking of its MkVI predecessor and would have been called the MkVII had Jaguar not just appropriated the name for their flagship saloon. Effectively a longer booted version of the MkVI, it was powered by a silky smooth 'Big Bore' 4,566cc straight-six engine with twin SU carbs and aluminium cylinder head.

Despite weighing nearly two tons, it was a spritely performer, especially in manual guise, achieving 106mph in near silence and reaching 50 from standstill in just 10 seconds. Servo assisted drum brakes provided the stopping power while suspension was independent with coil springs to the front, leaf springs to the rear. Enjoyable to drive with a light surefooted feel, it had enough power to give even contemporary sportscars a serious run for their money.

Inside things got even better, the lucky occupants cossetted in acres of hide and walnut that truly justified the cliche of 'a gentlemans club on wheels'. Just 2,320 examples were made before the R-Type was replaced by the much larger S1 in 1955. All the more surprising then, that they are such good value today, being more or less in the same price bracket as a relatively humdrum MkII Jag – a situation that we feel sure cannot continue much longer.

First registered in May 1953, this particular R-Type looks most striking in dark blue over cream with white-band tyres. About seven years ago the car underwent a complete restoration which has resulted in the fine specimen you see today. The interior was completed retrimmed with new Wilton carpets, a new headlining, refurbished woodwork and new navy Connelly leather seat covers piped in cream. All mechanical issues were addressed as required, including fitting a rebuilt 4.25-litre engine.

The vendor acquired the car two years ago to join his private collection and it has been Carcoon stored since and used for the odd fine weather jaunt only. Said to drive well, it is only offered for sale to free up space for a rather more exotic German machine which is soon to join the collection…